Israeli Forces To Remain Indefinitely in Southern Lebanon Buffer Zone

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the indefinite presence of Israeli forces in a southern Lebanon buffer zone, stating it is necessary for security. Following a truce, Katz confirmed troops will occupy five locations despite Lebanon’s claims of occupation. The UN has expressed concern over delays in the withdrawal process, as tensions with Hezbollah continue.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced on Thursday that Israeli forces will remain indefinitely in what he termed a “buffer zone” in southern Lebanon. Katz confirmed that the troops would continue to occupy five designated locations, even after the extended deadline for withdrawal outlined in a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah. He stated, “There is a buffer zone. It wasn’t easy but I stood my ground, and we received a green light from the United States. We gave them a map, and we are staying indefinitely – this is situation-dependent, not time-dependent.”

The withdrawal of Israeli forces was initially scheduled for February 18, following a truce agreement that concluded over a year of conflict. Katz emphasized Israel’s military presence in the buffer zone, which he described as critical for national security. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar labeled these positions as “strategic high points” necessary for Israel’s security, suggesting that their presence would be “temporary” until Lebanon fully adheres to the terms of the agreement.

In contrast, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and other government leaders have denounced any Israeli presence as an act of occupation. According to the ceasefire mediated by the United States and France, the Lebanese military was expected to deploy alongside United Nations peacekeepers as Israeli troops withdrew, a process aimed to be completed over a 60-day timeline extended to February 18. Hezbollah was also required to reposition north of the Litani River and dismantle military infrastructures in the region.

A joint statement from UN envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and the UNIFIL peacekeeping force expressed disappointment over the delays in the withdrawal process, indicating that such delays violate Security Council resolutions established in 2006 that ended a previous conflict. The recent hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, exacerbated by the group’s support of Gaza, concluded with a ceasefire that has largely to date been maintained, despite isolated Israeli actions that have resulted in casualties.

The ongoing situation has notably weakened Hezbollah and severely impacted its leadership structure.

In summary, Israeli forces plan to remain in a designated buffer zone in southern Lebanon indefinitely, as stated by Defense Minister Israel Katz. The Israeli government believes this presence is vital for national security, despite Lebanese leaders deeming it an occupation. The United Nations has expressed concern over delays in the withdrawal process, as the situation remains tense following recent hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.

Original Source: www.newarab.com